Insane theme parks in Dubai and Abu Dhabi

A carefree stay for our travelers is one of the most important parts of a trip! Florivida's travel experts have personally visited and approved the hotels at Yas Plaza. Thus, you are assured of a comfortable hotel on Yas Island in Abu Dhabi!

You will stay in 1 of the hotels at Yas Plaza or the W Hotel at the Abu Dhabi Formula 1 Circuit during this trip.

Yas Plaza Hotels

At Yas Plaza you will find no less than six different hotels, all located close to each other and perfect as a base for your trip! You will stay close to the theme parks, the entertainment area and the beach. Moreover, most of the hotels have been recently renovated, giving you a modern and stylish atmosphere. Each hotel has its own unique character, but they all guarantee a comfortable and pleasant stay.

1. Crowne Plaza
2. Radisson Blu
3. Yas Island Rotana
4. Park Inn by Radisson
5. Centro Yas Island
6. Staybridges Suite

All these hotels have a swimming pool, fitness center, free WI-FI and several food and beverage outlets. While staying at one of these hotels, you have access to the private Cyan Beach. There is also a shuttle service to take you to the hot spots. So you can enjoy Abu Dhabi at your leisure!

W Abu Dhabi (available at a surcharge)

The W Abu Dhabi - Yas Island offers a unique experience that goes beyond a traditional hotel. Located directly atop the Yas Marina Circuit, this hotel is the only one in the world with direct access to the iconic Formula One circuit, with rooms offering views of both the race track and the Yas Marina.

There is a pool and fitness center as well as several lounges and restaurants available. Rooms are spacious, modern and some have views of the racetrack. You have standard rooms with 1 or 2 beds and suites. Up to 2 adults and 1 child can stay here.

A carefree stay for our travelers is one of the most important parts of a trip! Florivida's travel experts have also selected excellently rated, comfortable hotels in Dubai for this trip. During this trip, you will stay in one of three hotel options all under the chain 'Rove Hotels'. All Rove hotels are comfortable and unique hotels with colorful decorations, street art and modern tones. Both have an excellent location, good amenities and nice atmosphere!

Rove at the park

This hotel is located in the Dubai Park and Resorts area on the south side of Dubai. Here you will find Motiongate, Legoland and Real Madrid World, among others. The rooms are modern with a 'funky' touch that perfectly captures the feeling of fun. There are two types of rooms, the standard 'rover' room and the family 'rover' rooms. These can accommodate up to 4 adults and 2 children.   

Rove Dubai Marina

This hotel, as the name suggests, is located in the heart of the Dubai Marina. In this area you are close to the beach, shopping malls & vibrant city life. The rooms are modern and decorated with colorful texts referring to the surroundings of Jumeirah Beach Residence. There are two types of rooms, the standard 'rover' room and 'rover' marina view room. Up to 2 adults and 1 child can stay here.  

Rove JBR 

This hotel is located on the waterfront, next to the beach! You are in the middle of the lively area of JBR (Jumeirah Beach Residence), near the palm. The hotel is functional yet has its colorful design. There is 1 type of room, the 'rover' room. Here there is room for 2 adults and 1 child. At this hotel, you also get exclusive access to Cove Beach, a beach club at JBR.

Amenities of all hotels

All rooms have Wifi, Air conditioning, a mini fridge and spacious bathroom. The hotels also have a restaurant, bar, swimming pool, gym, washer & dryer* as well as entertainment in the form of games. *with the exception of Rove JBR

Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, is a destination where modern luxury meets centuries-old traditions. The city is known for its iconic landmarks, the absolute standouts being the impressive Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and the presidential palace Qasr Al Watan. Here you will admire world-class architecture and get a unique insight into the rich culture of the Emirates.

Yas Island: the entertainment island

For adrenaline, fun and entertainment go to Yas Island, the main attraction of Abu Dhabi. Here you will find the impressive Yas Mall and a series of spectacular theme parks:

• Ferrari World - home to the world's fastest roller coaster, the Formula Rossa.

• Yas Waterworld - a paradise for water lovers with dozens of slides and attractions.

• Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi - an interactive indoor theme park full of famous movie heroes.

• SeaWorld Abu Dhabi - the newest addition, featuring unique underwater attractions, shows and educational experiences.

And there is good news: Disney has announced that a completely new Disney park is coming to Yas Island! This will be a huge addition for theme park lovers and will make Abu Dhabi the destination for families and fans of Disney.
Read all about it in our blog: Disney park announced in Abu Dhabi.

In addition, Yas Island is home to the iconic Yas Marina Circuit, known for the Formula One Grand Prix. Visitors here can even ride their own bikes around the circuit during special events.

In addition to single tickets, you can also visit many of these attractions with the Go City Pass Dubai & Abu Dhabi. This pass gives advantageous access to dozens of top attractions and can easily be booked in advance at Florivida. You can opt for a pass with a fixed number of activities or for the all-inclusive variant, which gives you unlimited access for several days.

Saadiyat Island: the cultural heart of Abu Dhabi

One of the most special and green places in Abu Dhabi is Saadiyat Island, also called the museum island. Here you will find the world-famous Louvre Abu Dhabi, which showcases an impressive collection of art and historical objects. New on Saadiyat Island is teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi, a futuristic art and technology park where art and science come together in interactive installations. This innovative experience offers a unique perspective on light, sound and movement, making the island's cultural offerings even more diverse. Soon the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, designed by renowned architect Frank Gehry, will also open, making Saadiyat Island the cultural hotspot of the Gulf region.

Luxury stays in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi is known for its exclusive resorts and family-friendly hotels. For ultimate luxury, visit the iconic Emirates Palace or the elegant St. Regis Saadiyat Island. There are also numerous renowned international hotel chains with excellent facilities for families, couples and business travelers. Ask Florivida about options suitable for your travel party.

Travel to Abu Dhabi with Florivida

Florivida offers various options for exploring Abu Dhabi, from single trips to complete combinations with Dubai and other destinations. See, for example:

• Theme parks Dubai & Abu Dhabi

• Endless beach and entertainment in Abu Dhabi

Our travel experts will be happy to help you with a personalized proposal tailored to your needs.

A vacation to Dubai is all about luxury hotels, beaches and not being bored for a moment! You will visit famous sites such as the Burj Khalifa and its magnificent fountains, the Dubai Mall, but also discover deserts, water parks, souks and theme parks that make the city surprisingly versatile. 

Besides, a Dubai vacation doesn't always have to be expensive. With our knowledge, we'll help you make the right choices for hotels and activities, so that your trip completely suits your needs. And if you want to experience even more, you can easily combine this destination with a cruise or a transit to Asia.

Highlights & sights

This metropolis has many places you must have seen once. From the tallest tower in the world to artificial islands and giant malls with indoor ski slopes.

Burj Khalifa

At 828 meters, the Burj Khalifa is the tallest building in the world. From the 124th and 125th floors, you look out over the city's skyline and the surrounding desert. In the evening you can see the city full of lights, giving a very different experience than during the day. 

Florivida tip: For an even better experience, you can go to the 148th floor, where it is less crowded and you have more space to look around. The Burj Khalifa bar is even higher where you can also get a great view of the city while enjoying a delicious drink.

Burj Al Arab

Burj Al Arab is one of the most recognizable hotels in the world. Its shape makes the building look like a sail, making it immediately noticeable on the shores of Jumeirah. The hotel is known for its luxury, but even if you don't spend the night there, it is possible to take a tour to see inside. You can reserve a table at one of the restaurants or bars and still get a glimpse of the interior. The beaches surrounding Burj Al Arab are great for a relaxing beach vacation.

Dubai Mall & Dubai Fountain

The Dubai Mall is a destination in itself. In addition to hundreds of stores, you will find an aquarium, an indoor waterfall and an ice skating rink. For families, KidZania, an interactive children's town, is a fun activity!

On the outside of the mall you will find the Dubai Fountain, where daily music and light shows take place. Especially at night, with the Burj Khalifa in the background, this is one of the city's most impressive free attractions.

Florivida tip: book a nice table overlooking the fountains of the Burj Khalifa. That way you can enjoy beautiful fountain shows throughout the evening. 

Palm Jumeirah & Atlantis with Aquaventure

Palm Jumeirah is an artificial island built in the shape of a palm tree in the sea. You drive onto the palm by car or cab or take the monorail. At the top of the palm is Atlantis The Palm, a hotel known worldwide for its extraordinary architecture and facilities. 

At this hotel you will find Aquaventure, one of the largest water parks in the world with slides, a lazy river, huge slides and multiple children's areas. Even if you are not staying here, Florivida can arrange tickets for you for a day of water fun.

Dubai Marina & JBR

Dubai Marina consists of a long promenade where you can stroll past restaurants, cafes, stores and a mall. During the day you can stroll quietly along the marina, while at night the area turns into a vibrant place full of lights and music. Dhow cruises also depart from the Marina. These are traditional boats that take you out for dinner and skyline views. 

Find more sightseeing inspiration at Visit Dubai.

Theme Parks

In addition to beaches and shopping, the city is also known for its theme parks. They are centered in Dubai Parks and Resorts, so you can easily visit several parks in one vacation. The two most enjoyable parks in this area are:

• Motiongate Dubai - Here you step into the world of DreamWorks, The Hunger Games and Ghostbusters. This park has an indoor and outdoor section with perfect theming.
• LEGOLAND Dubai - Highly recommended for families with younger children. In addition to attractions and play areas, there is also a water park where you can cool off.

Want to see even more parks? An hour and a half away you'll find Abu Dhabi, where you'll find Ferrari World, Warner Bros World and Yas Waterworld. This makes a combination of both cities extra fun.

Beaches

Dubai, due to the size of the city, has a huge number of beaches. From beach clubs to family-friendly beaches with luxury beds or public free beaches. 

Jumeirah Beach

This is the city's most famous and accessible beach. Located near Burj Al Arab, it offers a large stretch of public beach with showers, changing rooms and play areas for children. Since access is free, this beach is a good fit for a cheap Dubai vacation without sacrificing comfort. Just keep in mind that it is often busier here than at other beaches.

JBR Beach

JBR Beach is located directly on the promenade of Jumeirah Beach Residences. During the day, this beach is popular with families thanks to its sunbeds, play areas and water sports facilities. In the evening, the promenade comes alive with restaurants and cafes, turning your beach day into an entertaining evening.

Hotel Beaches

Many hotels in the city have their own private beaches, often accessible only to hotel guests. These beaches have facilities such as service at your lounger, pools right on the beach and activities in and around the pool. Although you usually have to stay at the hotel to gain access, some resorts also allow you to buy a day pass to use the facilities.

Hotels

From luxury resorts to affordable and practical or family-friendly hotels, there is always an option to suit your needs and budget.

• Luxury hotels - Think icons like the Burj Al Arab and Atlantis The Palm. Here you will enjoy impressive interiors, extensive facilities and private beach, kids clubs and beautiful hotel rooms. Perfect if you want to make your Dubai vacation unforgettable.
• Affordable hotels - For an inexpensive vacations in Dubai, there are countless options. You can find affordable hotels in every area of Dubai. Ask the travel experts at Florivida about the possibilities.
• Family Hotels - For a vacation Dubai with children, there are resorts with family rooms, children's pools and entertainment. This makes the stay relaxing and practical for the whole family.

Take contact with us for all possibilities!

Flying to Dubai

From the Netherlands, you fly to Dubai in about 6.5 hours. There are several airlines offering direct flights.

Travel tips

• On-site transportation - Cabs are affordable and run all over the city. Use Uber, for example, for this purpose. The subway is another way to get to attractions such as the Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Mall quickly.
• Clothing and culture - Here you dress generally modern, but keep in mind modest dress in mosques.
• Cheap vacations - A cheap vacation to Dubai is possible by choosing affordable hotels and free activities such as the Dubai Fountain or a day at Jumeirah Beach.
• Dubai with children - For families, the city is surprisingly convenient. Water parks, beaches and activities like KidZania and The Green Planet make a Dubai vacation with kids a real must. The possibilities are endless!
• Combination options - Dubai is ideal to combine with a cruise from the city or a transit to Asia. This way, you can turn your vacation into a complete travel experience. Feel free to take contact with us for all possibilities!
• Go City Pass Dubai & Abu Dhabi - The Go City Pass allows you to discover the top attractions in Dubai and Abu Dhabi at a competitive rate. Via Florivida you can easily book this pass, with a choice of a variant for 3 to 7 activities or an all-inclusive pass that allows you to visit unlimited attractions for 2 to 10 days.

Book your Dubai vacation with Florivida

Dubai is large and multifaceted. This is precisely why personal advice is so valuable. We will help you choose the accommodations and activities that best suit your needs. Ask here your travel proposal and discover Dubai with Florivida!

Want to explore the theme parks? Then check out our theme park trip to Dubai & Abu Dhabi, in which you have plenty of time for attractions and entertainment. Prefer something different? Check out al Our trips to Dubai!

A vacation to the Gulf States means traveling to a region full of wonderful contrasts. You will discover futuristic cities with gleaming skyscrapers and modern shopping malls, as well as vast deserts, traditional souks and quiet coastal towns. Known for luxury resorts and sunny beaches, the Gulf States also offer plenty of culture and impressive natural experiences.

In this regard, each destination within the Gulf States has its own character. Dubai is all about luxury and endless entertainment, Abu Dhabi combines culture with modern attractions and theme parks. In addition, surprises Oman with nature and traditions, and in Qatar discover the vibrant Doha full of museums and markets. Together, these countries make the Gulf States a versatile travel destination where there is something new to discover every time!

Destinations in the Gulf States

Dubai

Dubai is the city where everything seems bigger and more spectacular. From the world's tallest tower, the Burj Khalifa, to huge shopping malls like the Dubai Mall, you won't be bored for a moment here. Besides glitz and glamour, Dubai also offers variety with traditional souks, vibrant beaches and adventures in the desert. Dubai is undoubtedly a highlight of any vacation to the Gulf States. Want to know more about what to do in Dubai? Then read our blog: What to do in Dubai.

Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi is the capital of the United Arab Emirates and combines culture with modern activities. In Abu Dhabi, admire the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and museums such as the Louvre Abu Dhabi. For entertainment visit Yas Island with Ferrari World, Warner Bros World and SeaWorld Abu Dhabi. You will also find long beaches and luxury hotels in Abu Dhabi, making it an ideal destination to combine city, relaxation and fun. Discover our journey To Abu Dhabi that brings all these elements together!

Oman

For travelers who want to experience the Gulf States with a little more tranquility, Oman is the ideal destination. The country is known for its hospitable people, craggy mountains, vast deserts and idyllic beaches. In Muscat you will visit colorful markets and historic forts, while in nature you will discover spectacular wadis and oases. Oman shows that the Gulf states offer a special combination of modern developments and traditional culture.

Qatar

Qatar is becoming increasingly popular as a destination in the Gulf States. This is mainly due to the rapid development of its capital, Doha, where modern skyscrapers and luxury hotels blend with tradition and culture. You stroll along the Corniche, a long waterfront boulevard with a view of the skyline. In the Souq Waqif you will discover a traditional market full of spices, clothing and local food. Also, the Museum of Islamic Art is worth a visit, a modern building that is a sight in itself. Thanks to good flight connections, more and more travelers are choosing to vacation or stopover in Qatar to discover this diverse country.

Beach & desert experiences

A vacation to the Gulf States is not complete without a day at the beach or an adventure in the desert. Thanks to the warm climate, you can enjoy the sun and sea here all year round. In Dubai and Abu Dhabi there are vast beaches where luxury resorts, beach clubs and public beaches alternate. Also in Oman you will find idyllic coastal towns where you can relax or snorkel and dive in clear waters.

The desert shows another whole different side. During a desert safari drive a jeep through high sand dunes, get to know the traditional Bedouin culture and taste local dishes under the stars. For the more active, there is sandboarding or quad biking, while you can also find peace and quiet with an overnight stay in a desert camp. Thus the Gulf States show that they offer both relaxation and adventure, often within a short distance of each other.

Theme parks in the Gulf States

The Gulf States are a paradise for lovers of theme parks and entertainment. Dubai and Abu Dhabi in particular have made huge investments in recent years in spectacular theme parks suitable for everyone. Learn more about all the theme parks in our blog: Dubai & Abu Dhabi's 8 biggest theme parks

Theme parks in Dubai

• Dubai Parks and Resorts - large complex with Motiongate and Legoland Dubai

• Aquaventure World - slides and water fun at Atlantis The Palm

• Wild Wadi Water Park - water park next to the iconic Burj Al Arab

Theme parks in Abu Dhabi (Yas Island)

• Ferrari World - lightning-fast roller coasters and racing experiences

• Warner Bros. World - Meet your favorite movie and cartoon characters

• Yas Waterworld - water slides and attractions for all ages

• SeaWorld Abu Dhabi - aquariums, shows and interactive experiences

In addition, Disney Abu Dhabi has also been announced. Although the opening date is not yet known, this park promises to be a spectacular addition. Read more about it in our blog on Disney Abu Dhabi.

Florivida is a specialist in theme parks and would love to help you with advice and planning your ideal trip! Feel free to contact with us for more information or to plan your vacation.

Culture

The Gulf States are countries where tradition and modernity go hand in hand. While skylines are filled with modern towers, Islamic culture plays an important role in daily life. Hospitality is paramount: visitors are often warmly welcomed and sharing coffee or dates is a common gesture of welcome.

You can also see clear traditions in the way of life. Many residents still wear traditional clothing, such as the white kandura for men and the black abaya for women. During prayer times, the call to prayer sounds from mosques and there is often a moment of silence in some cities. Those who travel to the Gulf states quickly find that respect for local customs is important, such as wearing appropriate clothing in religious buildings. Keep in mind that some states are more modern than others: what is very common in Dubai or Abu Dhabi may be perceived differently in Oman or Qatar.

In addition, family ties are essential in the culture. Families go out together to malls, parks and beaches, and even during holidays such as Ramadan and Eid, everything is about celebrating and sharing together.

Practical Tips

A vacation to the Gulf States becomes even easier with a few practical tips. That way, you'll be well prepared for your trip and know what to expect during your stay.

• Best travel time - The most pleasant time to visit the Gulf States is from November through March, when temperatures are mild.
• Flies - From the Netherlands and Belgium, there are direct flights to Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Doha and Muscat. Travel time is around 6 to 7 hours.
• Visa - For most countries in the Gulf States, travelers with a valid Dutch or Belgian passport will receive a visa or visa-free entry for several days upon arrival. Always check this in advance.
• Transportation on site - In Dubai and Doha, there is a modern metro system. For more freedom, many travelers opt for cabs or a rental car, especially in Oman. The roads in the Gulf states are generally well maintained and easy to drive, making a rental car a comfortable and safe option.
• Currency - Each destination in the Gulf States has its own currency, such as the dirham in the UAE, the rial in Oman and the riyal in Qatar. Debit and credit card payments are possible almost everywhere.
• Clothing and habits - Observe local customs by wearing covering clothing in religious buildings.
• Safety - The Gulf States are among the safest regions in the Middle East. Crime is rare, and travelers often experience the culture as welcoming and friendly.

Traveling to the Gulf States with Florivida

At Florivida, we are happy to help you fully customize your trip to the Gulf States. Whether you choose a luxury beach vacation or a stay centered around theme parks: we make sure everything is taken care of down to the last detail.

We have experience in destinations such as Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Oman and Qatar, and know exactly which hotels and activities best suit your needs!
Question here request your free travel proposal or view our trips to the gulf states!